A Path to Resilience in the Arts

In Uncertain Times, Small Arts Nonprofits Need Each Other and Artists More Than Ever

Years ago, I worked at a small theatre company that offered student matinees. We were proud of the work—but something wasn’t adding up. Schools we specifically hoped to reach weren’t showing up. After digging a little deeper, we found the issue: they wanted to come but couldn’t afford the buses.

Gas and drivers were the barrier.

So, I went back to a larger partner organization that had helped fund the program and simply asked: “Can we do more to actually get these kids in the seats?”

They said yes.

Because they understood that access to the arts isn’t just about tickets—it’s about transportation, too.

That experience stuck with me. And it’s part of why I wrote this article on how small arts nonprofits can build powerful partnerships to strengthen programming and raise more funds—especially in times where so much is at stake.

We don’t need another article reminding us how hard it is for small and mid-sized nonprofit arts organizations right now—shrinking budgets, rising costs, donor fatigue, and a general sense of “what’s next?” have created a persistent state of uncertainty. But here’s what we do need: more conversations about collaboration.

Now more than ever, it’s time for arts organizations to get creative beyond the stage or studio—to build partnerships with other nonprofits that can expand impact, strengthen infrastructure, and unlock new opportunities for funding.

Because here’s the truth: the path to resilience in the arts is collaboration!

When small nonprofits (especially in the arts and LGBTQ+ spaces) come together with other nonprofits or artists, they can reach broader audiences, share resources, and even co-create programs that donors and funders are excited to support. Whether it’s teaming up with a couple of artists for an arts education series, working with a food justice nonprofit to bring performance into public spaces, or just sharing back-office functions, collaboration helps everyone go further—without burning out.

So how do you begin?

3 simple actions small arts nonprofits can take now to build stronger partnerships—and a more resilient, connected community:

Start with shared values.

Identify one or two local nonprofits whose mission complements yours. You don’t need to do the same thing—you just need to care about the same people or outcomes. Reach out for a conversation to explore what’s possible to create together.

Co-host something small.

A free community event. A pop-up exhibit. A conversation series. Start with a low-stakes collaboration with nonprofits or artists that gives everyone visibility and shows funders you know how to work smart and bring people together.

Pitch joint funding.

Funders are increasingly looking for signs of collaboration. Consider submitting a grant or appeal that highlights your shared work with another organization or artist—it shows you’re not working in a silo and are thinking about long-term community impact.

We need bold collaborations. We need community spaces. And we need nonprofits that aren’t afraid to evolve, experiment, and build bridges.

Let’s remember: the future of the arts doesn’t belong to any one of us—it belongs to all of us, together.

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